One person has been confirmed dead, two are in critical condition, and dozens more have been injured after the roof of the Apollo Theater in Belvidere collapsed during a storm.

Eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud cracking sound followed by the sound of debris falling as the roof of the historic theatre caved in during a thunderstorm on Friday evening.

Emergency services were immediately called to the scene and began rescue operations, with firefighters and police officers working to extract people trapped beneath the rubble.

According to local authorities, one person has been confirmed dead, while two others are in critical condition in hospital. Dozens more have been treated for a range of injuries, with many of them suffering from broken bones, cuts, and bruises.

The Apollo Theater, which was built in 1912 and has been a popular venue for concerts, plays, and other cultural events, is a significant part of Belvidere’s cultural heritage. The theatre’s distinctive neoclassical façade and ornate interior have made it a beloved landmark for locals and visitors alike.

As news of the collapse spread, many people took to social media to express their shock and sadness at the tragedy. Local residents also gathered outside the theatre, laying flowers and lighting candles in tribute to the victims.

In a statement, Belvidere’s mayor, John Smith, expressed his condolences to the families of those affected by the collapse and praised the efforts of emergency services workers.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of those who have been affected by this terrible tragedy,” Smith said. “We are grateful for the bravery and dedication of our emergency services workers who have worked tirelessly to rescue and treat those injured in the collapse.”

The cause of the collapse is still under investigation, but early reports suggest that the heavy rain and strong winds from the storm may have played a role. The theatre’s roof was also known to be in need of repair, and some have speculated that this may have contributed to the collapse.

In the wake of the disaster, local authorities have launched a review of the safety of other buildings in the area, particularly those that are of a similar age and construction as the Apollo Theater. The review will include an examination of building regulations, maintenance procedures, and emergency response protocols.

The collapse of the Apollo Theater has also raised questions about the future of the building itself. While some have called for the theatre to be restored and reopened, others have suggested that it may be beyond repair and should be demolished.

The decision on the fate of the theatre will be a difficult one, as the building has both cultural and historical significance for the town of Belvidere. However, for now, the focus remains on the recovery efforts and the investigation into the cause of the collapse.

The tragedy at the Apollo Theater is a reminder of the importance of building safety and maintenance, particularly for older buildings that may be more susceptible to wear and tear. It is also a testament to the bravery and dedication of emergency services workers, who put their lives on the line to rescue those in need.

As the community of Belvidere mourns the loss of one of its landmarks and supports those affected by the tragedy, the hope is that lessons will be learned from this disaster and that steps will be taken to ensure the safety of other buildings in the area.